8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. Acts 4:8-10

Sometimes the best approach is the most direct approach. It’s one thing to preach “hellfire and brimstone” to the people, but quite another to do the same for leaders who have the so-called power to do bad things to you. It’s encouraging to see the boldness and maturity of these two disciples so early in their ministry.

Of course, many people are fearless when they are baby Christians. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

But somewhere along the way, the newness fades and we go back to old patterns, though with better morals. On occasion we’ll share our faith but we become so rusty at it. We stammer and stutter, and don’t want to experience that feeling again so we are less likely to speak up next time. Not all of us become like that, but many do.

But fortunately we can change. We can shed old habits.

What’s interesting about this passage is in the first sentence, Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, good things happen. How do you know that you’re filled with the Holy Spirit? Entire libraries have been filled with theologians and Believers who have written about topics like this.

So, how do you know that you’re filled with the Holy Spirit?

Ask

If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13

Is that all we need?

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3

It’s all Peter and John needed. Look, God has given us very basic tools we need to live a godly life.

Just ask.